Portable beverage preparation device and system

ABSTRACT

A portable beverage preparation device and system for making brews, mixes, and potions on demand by selectively introducing and mixing predetermined quantities of at least one stored, edible, beverage preparation confined in at least one sealed chamber into a portable beverage container containing a predetermined volume of a potable base liquid and having a dispenser means for introducing the at least one beverage preparation into the potable base liquid; wherein the drink container and the at least one sealed chamber are in close physical proximity to each other and separated by at least one thin membrane which, when inwardly perforated by the dispenser means, introduces the at least one beverage preparation into the base liquid. The system of the invention further provides a brewing element and a portable heating unit, the heater element of which fits into the beverage container for heating the liquid.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is related to the field of beverage preparationdevices and systems, and in particular, to a portable beveragepreparation device and system for making brews, mixes, and potions ondemand by selectively introducing and mixing predetermined quantities ofstored, edible, beverage preparations into a portable beverage containercontaining a predetermined volume of a potable base liquid.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

People enjoy drinking cold and hot beverages at all times, andespecially while on the go. Coffee, tea, and other hot drinks of alltypes are very popular all year around. Children and babies enjoy coldor hot milk, often with a chocolate or other flavor added. In themorning, hot drinks such as coffee, are preferred by many adults.

In order to have this coffee for the morning commute, a person eitherhas to be up early to prepare the coffee in his home, or prepare it thenight before and keep it hot in a thermos type container. As societybecomes increasingly mobile, the morning routine is disturbed and aperson either goes without a morning drink or must wait until he or sheis at school or work to prepare a favorite beverage for him or herself,if there is time. Hot instant teas and soups require heating facilities,whether at the office or at home and cannot easily be prepared while ina car. Thermos bottles filled with coffee prepared from the night beforemay supply the needs of some people for a drink, but such coffee isusually not very hot and not as tasty as when freshly brewed.

As the sophistication for coffee increases, people now enjoy moresophisticated coffee drinks as their morning coffee, such as espressos,and other espresso-based drinks, such as lattes, cappuccinos, and thelike. Espresso must be consumed while fresh, and at high temperatures,to preserve the quality and taste. Accordingly, preparation of anespresso or espresso-based drink before the morning commute or otherautomobile trip, typically requires additional preparation time, thatpeople may not have if they are pressed for time. Additionally, in manyareas, there may not be any outlets for purchasing an espresso orespresso-based drink to be enjoyed at rest-stops along the way. Finally,even if an espresso or espresso-based drink can be purchased on theroad, it may be of low quality, stale, and in a disposable cup thatcannot preserve the high heat required to keep the drink hot and tasty.

Although many cold drinks are on the market, they generally have thedisadvantage of requiring refrigeration to maintain their cooltemperature. Until use, many drinks must be kept in a refrigerator.Furthermore, if the drinks are already mixed, their shelf-life islimited. Many cold drinks and mixes are packaged in containers that donot allow people on the go to add ingredients, such as sweeteners orflavors, to suit the individual taste of the consumer. Disposal ofcommonly used drink containers, such as bottles, metal cans, and evenplastic, is often complicated when traveling by the need to find arecycling bin or a place to claim a refund on a deposit. Usually,discouraged consumers will simply throw away the container, hopefully ina waste receptacle, but not always. If some residue of the drink remainsin the container, it can cause unnecessary and unsightly environmentaland sanitation problems by spilling-over and attracting insects androdents.

Thus, it would be desirable to provide a broad choice of preparedbeverages, both cold and hot, which are freshly made, at reasonablecost, and with minimum effort, according to taste and preference of theconsumer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, it is a principal object of the present invention toovercome problems associated with beverage preparation and provide aportable beverage preparation device and system for preparing both coldmixed drinks and hot brewed beverages.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention,there is provided a portable beverage preparation device comprising:

-   -   a drink container containing a predetermined volume of a potable        base liquid;    -   at least one beverage preparation of a predetermined quantity;    -   at least one sealed compartment for confining said beverage        preparation; and    -   a dispenser means for introducing said at least one beverage        preparation into said base liquid within said drink container;    -   wherein said drink container and said at least one sealed        compartment are in close physical proximity to each other and        separated by at least one thin membrane which, when inwardly        perforated by said dispenser means, introduces said at least one        beverage preparation into said base liquid.

In the preferred embodiment, the portable beverage preparation deviceand system can prepare both cold mixed drinks and hot brewed beverages,and prepare potions and remedies involving addition of edibleingredients to a potable, base liquid, such as treated water. Theseadditives, in the form of ready-to-mix ingredients, such as powders andconcentrates, are provided in one or more separate chambers or chambersin communication with a portable beverage preparation device comprisinga container, such as a cup, a baby bottle, a medicine bottle, and thelike. The chambers storing the ready-to-mix ingredients are disposed inphysical proximity to the container and, in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention, are external or internal to the body ofthe container, such as on a side or bottom. In another embodiment of theinvention, the chamber is fabricated as an element of the cover, or capof the container For example, in one embodiment of the invention, asealed cup is provided with at least one, over-the-cover, protrudingchamber for holding edible ingredients. In another embodiment of theinvention, the chamber is embedded in the handle of the container.

Furthermore, the portable beverage preparation device of the inventionis conveniently provided with a built-in dispenser means for introducingthe beverage preparation into the potable base liquid. There is no needto open a container to mix the ingredients and spills are avoided. Inone embodiment of the invention, small openings are provided in thesealed container cover allowing for the insertion of a drinking straw,alternatively, a consumer can choose to sip the drink from a convenientlip-size mouthpiece built into the cover.

The chamber may be any shape or combination of shapes and configurationsand the number of such chambers is only limited by the surface spaceavailable, but in one preferred embodiment of the invention, the shapeis accordion-like. In another embodiment of the invention, it isdome-shaped, or bubble-shaped. Finger pressure on any of the chambersselects the ingredients of that chamber and bursts a foil seal betweenthe inward-facing surface of the selected chamber and the cup,dispensing the ingredients into the potable liquid stored therein. Aftershaking the cup to mix the ingredients with the liquid, the drink isready to consume.

The container of the portable beverage preparation device, such as acup, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, is disposable togetherwith any remaining ingredients stored in the chambers.

The container may be made of any suitable material, as is known to thoseskilled in the art, but in a preferred embodiment of the invention, thedrinking container is made of plastic.

Optionally, in another embodiment of the system of the invention, aportable heater unit is provided with the portable container to heat thebeverage for on-demand brewing of a hot beverage, for example,espressos, coffees, teas, and soups. Commonly, these beverages anddrinks may be consumed with little waiting time since they are easy toprepare. They can also be taken with to work or school and prepared in abreak period. Using the lighter socket in a car for power, the drinksmay be prepared hot or to taste. All the necessary ingredients areself-contained and fresh. The beverage drinks may also be prepared whilecamping, vacationing or traveling far from home. By brewing a beveragein a motor vehicle while at a rest stop, or at home, the consumers havea freshly brewed or mixed drink whenever wanted, with little preparationtime and effort.

Alternate embodiments of the invention provide for the mixing of arefreshing, favorite cold drink, such as chocolate milk, iced tea, andthe like. In the embodiment of the invention for providing hot brewedbeverages, the system operates by heating small quantities of liquid,for example, treated water, in a continuous cycle. These smallquantities are typically heated to boiling or thereabout, with smallamounts of power. The heated liquid is forced (injected) by pressureinto contact with a beverage preparation in a pocket or other holder.Once through the pocket, the now formed beverage flows into a receivingchamber in a cup. This process is repeated for a desired number ofcycles to prepare the desired beverage. When all desired beverage hasbeen produced, the system can be deactivated, with the cup separatedfrom the remainder of the system so that the produced beverage can beenjoyed.

For hot brewed beverages, the portable beverage preparation devicefurther comprises a heating unit including a heater element configuredfor fitting within a cup unit. The heater element includes a chamber forholding liquid (for example, water), at least one heat activated valvefor sealing the chamber to confine a predetermined volume of fluid inthe sealed chamber, a heater rod extending into the chamber (which mayalso be used for making a cold drink on the Peltier principle), and atube in communication with the chamber. The chamber is configured forheating a portion of the liquid to at least boiling to produce pressurein the chamber for pushing liquid through the tube. Upon exiting thetube, the hot water typically floods at least one beverage preparationconfined in a small compartment or pocket and the hot liquid is forcedout and falls or flows directly into an outer cup for collection and tomake the ready-to-drink beverage.

There is also disclosed a portable beverage brewing system of a cup unitand a brewing element. The cup unit includes an inner cup and an outercup, the inner cup spaced apart from the outer cup so as to define achamber for holding liquid between these cups. The brewing element isconfigured for fitting on the inner cup and this brewing element isconfigured for holding at least one beverage preparation and configuredfor the passage of a base liquid through it. The cup unit, and inparticular the inner cup, includes a potable liquid, prepackagedtherein, that can be, for example, treated water.

There is further disclosed a portable beverage brewing system of a cupunit, with separable inner and outer cups, and a brewing element. Thebrewing element fits on the inner cup, is configured for holdingbeverage preparations and is also configured for the passage of fluidtherethrough, and including an outlet proximate to the periphery of theinner cup. The cup, and in particular the inner cup, includes liquid,prepackaged therein, that can be for example, treated water. The brewingelement is provided as either a fixed or replaceable element.

Also disclosed is a method (process) for preparing a beverage. Thismethod includes providing a brewing element containing a beveragepreparation therein, continuously heating quantities of approximately 15milliliters (ml) of liquid to at least boiling, and pressurizing theheated liquid to force it into and out of the brewing element. Thecontinuous heating typically lasts until all of the liquid in the innercup has been exhausted.

Also disclosed is another method for preparing a beverage drinkcomprising:

-   -   providing a drink container containing a predetermined volume of        a potable base liquid;    -   providing at least one sealed chamber containing a predetermined        quantity of at least one beverage preparation;    -   providing a dispenser means for introducing said at least one        beverage preparation into the potable base liquid;        wherein the drink container and the at least one sealed chamber        are in close physical proximity to each other and separated by        at least one thin membrane which, when inwardly perforated by        the dispenser means, introduces the at least one beverage        preparation into the potable base liquid;    -   selecting at least one of the at least one beverage preparation        from the at least one sealed chamber;    -   applying pressure to at least one pressure point to activate the        dispenser means;    -   perforating the at least one thin membrane;    -   releasing the at least one beverage preparation from the at        least one sealed chamber into the potable base liquid; and    -   mixing the at least one beverage preparation with the potable        base liquid.

The method for preparing a portable beverage drink further comprisesheating the base liquid; and flushing the at least one additiveingredient from the at least one sealed chamber into the base liquid byone of pressure action and sprinkler means.

A further method for producing a brewed beverage drink comprises: a)providing a brewing element including a beverage preparation therein; b)continuously heating quantities of approximately 15 milliliters (ml) ofliquid to at least boiling; c) pressurizing the heated liquid to forceit into and out of the brewing element; and repeating steps (b) and (c).

Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparentfrom the following drawings and description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the invention with regard to theembodiments thereof, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings,in which like reference numerals or characters indicate corresponding orlike elements throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a partial cut-away, isometric view of a portable beveragepreparation device, comprising a cup and a bonded cover, in a preferredembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a partial cut-away, isometric view of another embodiment of aportable beverage preparation device constructed in accordance with theprinciples of the invention;

FIG. 3 is yet another embodiment of the invention, illustrating a closedcup with both the sealed chambers for beverage preparation and apump-type dispersion means disposed within the potable base liquid;

FIG. 4 is a partial cut-away, isometric view of a cup similar to that ofFIG. 2, but shown with a core dispersion means with multiple beveragepreparation in several vertical sealed containers extending into thecup;

FIGS. 5A/B/C/D illustrate alternate embodiments and dispositions of thedispenser means of the invention for preparing a beverage drink in ababy bottle;

FIG. 6 is an isometric, cutaway view a cup element of the inventionprovided with a sealed chamber containing beverage preparation disposedon the underside of the container, such as in FIG. 5D;

FIG. 6A is an enlarged, detail view of a portion of the construction ofthe container from FIG. 6;

FIG. 7 is an isometric, cross-section view of an embodiment of theinvention for a beverage preparation system for medicinal potions;

FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of an embodiment of the system of theinvention for preparing a hot or cold beverage drink in a cup containerutilizing a separate heating/cooling unit;

FIGS. 9A/B/C are cross-section views of the steps in another beveragepreparation system in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 10A/B are cross-section views of yet another embodiment of thesystem of the invention;

FIG. 11 is an isometric cross-section view of a portable beveragepreparation device connected to a heating unit in accordance withanother embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11A is an isometric, cross-sectional view of detail 11A from FIG.11;

FIG. 11B is an enlarged, isometric, cross-sectional view of detail 11Bfrom FIG. 11;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the portable heating unit of FIG.11;

FIG. 12A is a magnified, cross-sectional view of detail 12A from FIG.12;

FIG. 13 is a graph comparing temperature variations over time for waterheated by the heater element of FIG. 12A under different waterconditions;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the cup of FIG. 11, including abrewing element;

FIG. 15 is an isometric, exploded, cross-sectional view of the cup unitof FIG. 14, but with a removable brewing element;

FIG. 16 is an isometric, cross-sectional view of the cup unit of FIG. 14shown provided with a cover;

FIG. 17A is an axial, cross-sectional view of a further embodiment of abrewing element of the invention;

FIG. 17B is an isometric, cross-sectional view of the brewing element ofFIG. 17A;

FIG. 18 is a top, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of abrewing element of the invention; and

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cup unitwith a cover as in FIG. 15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a partial cut-away, isometric view of a portable beveragepreparation device, comprising a cup and a bonded cover, in a preferredembodiment of the invention.

A container, such as drinking cup 32, and a tightly fitting cover 34 issealed with a bond 36 to form a closed portable beverage preparationdevice. Bond 36 may be a heat seal or a mechanical bond as is known tothose skilled in the art.

Cover 34 is provided with at least one sealed chamber 38A/B including adispersion means (not shown), such as small, sharp punching ribs. Atleast one additive ingredient 40 is provided in a measured quantitywithin at least one sealed chamber 38A/B. Ingredients to use areselected by the user, such as, by way of example, any of the ingredientsfrom the groups of edible materials: coffee, tea, cocoa; powders,grounds, and flakes; dried fruits, dried vegetables; fruit juice,vegetable juice; milk and milk-substitute powders; syrups, sweeteners,flavorings; emulsions, solutions, extracts; dried herbs, medicines;liquid concentrates, liquid condensates, and any combination from thesegroups. Unless otherwise noted, in the various examples of the portablebeverage preparation device and system described herein, hot drinkspreferably utilize typical coffee or expresso drink ingredients.

The sealed chambers may be of any shape or size which can beaccommodated in the available space on the surface of cover 34, but inthe preferred embodiment of the invention shown, sealed chambers 38A areaccordion-like protuberances. Alternatively, by way of example, sealedchamber 38B is shown as a bubble-like structure. The interior 42 of cup32 is prefilled with a measured volume of liquid, such as water or milk(not shown). A convenient mouth-piece 44 is provided for drinking themixed beverage, or a user may insert a straw (not shown) through theopening of mouth-piece 44 and imbibe the beverage in a more informalmanner. A handle 46 is an optional feature of cup 32.

Each of the sealed chambers 38A/B is provided with a dispersion means,such as ribs (see FIG. 3), which punch or perforate a thin membrane 48disposed between each sealed chamber 38A/B and the interior 42 of cup32. The thin membrane 48 is fabricated of plastic or metallic foil in apreferred embodiment of the invention.

When finger pressure is applied to the top edge of at least one,user-selected, sealed chambers 38 a/b, the beverage preparation withinthe selected chamber is forced out through the holes perforated in thethin membrane 48 by the dispenser means (see rib points 72 in FIG. 3)and fall into the liquid within cup 32. Before drinking the beverage,the user need only shake the portable container to mix the contents morethoroughly. There is no messy waste to clean up from open, spilled cupsas in the prior art, since the residue remains sealed inside cup 30.

FIG. 2 is a partial cut-away, isometric view of another embodiment of aportable beverage preparation device constructed in accordance with theprinciples of the invention.

A container, such as drinking cup 32, and a cover 50, which is bondedwith a sealing bond 36, form a sealed portable beverage preparationdevice. Bond 36 may be a heat seal or a mechanical bond as is known tothose skilled in the art.

Cover 50 is provided with one or more, under-the-cover, suspended sealedchambers 52. In the example shown in FIG. 2, sealed chambers 52 aredivided into three segments, each storing a measured quantity ofdifferent beverage preparation for preparing a beverage drink, forexample, chocolate powder, milk powder and sugar. Two of the beveragepreparation as arbitrarily represented by numbers 40, 41 are visible inthe partial cut-away. Not shown are the dispersion means (see FIG. 3),such as small, sharp, punching ribs which are enveloped and surroundedby the beverage preparation. These sealed chambers 52 may be of anyshape or size accommodatable in the space available on the undersurfaceof cover 50, but in the preferred embodiment of the invention shown,sealed chambers 52 are wedge-shaped segments. The interior 42 of cup 32is prefilled with a predetermined volume of liquid, such as water (notshown). A convenient lip-like mouthpiece 44 is provided for drinking.

Simply shaking the closed cup 32 a few times mixes the beverage, andthen it is ready to drink. A small removable cover is provided forreclosing the drinking opening.

It should be noted that the same cup 32 is adaptable for use with aheater/cooler device by inserting a heating/cooling element 132 (as inFIG. 8), or a simple heater element (not shown) with an adaptor forportable power, into the openings 66 (FIG. 3).

FIG. 3 is yet another embodiment of the invention, illustrating a closedcup with both the sealed chambers for beverage preparation and apump-type dispenser means disposed within the potable base liquid.

A container, such as cup 58 is provided with press-points 60, 61 onopposing sides of cup 58 for operation of an internal, centrallydisposed, pump-type dispersion means 62. Several types of beveragepreparation 40, 41 are sealed in between thin, metallic foil membranes48 which protect them from contact with the base liquid (not shown)provided within cup 58. A cover 64 is sealed by a bond 36 to cup 58.Cover 64 is provided with a mouthpiece lip-type opening 44 for drinkingthe mixed beverage, and an outer opening 66 for venting. Openings 66 and44 can also be used for connecting to an inlet and outlet of a heatingdevice or cooler as per FIGS. 8, 9, and 10.

Internal, centrally disposed, piston-type dispersion means 62 isoperated by a user by applying finger pressure on press points 60, 61simultaneously. In one embodiment of the invention, pressure point 61 isshown as an accordion-type protrusion on one side of the cup 58 whichcollapses with gripping pressure on both pressure points 60, 61.Alternatively, cup flexibility might be sufficient to operate thedispersion means 62 given proper design considerations as is known tothose skilled in the art. A fixed bar 68 acts as a break to the inwardpressure on flexible bar 70 connected to piston 35, which bringsperforating ribs 72 into contact with the thin membranes 48. A firstpump on the pressure points 60, 61 acts on the piston 35 and perforatesboth the inlet and outlet aluminum foils comprising the thin membranes48 in a preferred embodiment of the invention. The next few pumpingactions cause the base liquid to flow as indicated by the arrows,flushing the powder of the beverage preparation 40, 41 to mix andcomplete the preparation of the beverage drink.

FIG. 4 is a partial cut-away, isometric view of a cup similar to that ofFIG. 2, but shown with a core dispersion means with multiple beveragepreparation in several vertical sealed containers extending into thecup.

The central cylinder 74 is divided into core segments for storingmultiple beverage preparation 39, 40, 41—all of which are provided inmeasured quantity with cup 32. The dispersion means (not shown) can bedesigned to extend downward perforating the lower metallic foil membrane(not shown) when pressed, allowing the beverage preparation to disperse,as shown by the lower arrows, into the potable base liquid, preferablywater.

Alternatively, hot or cold water is added from an external sourcethrough the opening in central core 54 (as shown by vertical arrows)after removing a protective cover (not shown) covering the beveragepreparation 39, 40, 41. This allows the cup 32 to be reused whensupplied with refill units of beverage preparation selected inaccordance with the taste and preference of a user and which isprepackaged in cylindrical form suitable for insertion into the centralcore 54.

Cover 50 is provided with a mouthpiece lip-type opening 44 which servesas an outlet for drinking the prepared beverage (curved arrow up). Oneor more small venting slots, not shown in this example, are generallydisposed on the cover 50 on the side opposite mouthpiece lip-typeopening 44.

FIGS. 5A/B/C/D illustrate alternate embodiments and dispositions of thedispenser means of the invention for preparing a beverage drink in ababy bottle.

Referring now to FIG. 5A, a container, comprising a baby bottle 80 witha sealed, nipple cover 82 and a dispenser means 84 having both an upperpunch 86 and a lower punch 88 for perforating both upper and lower thinmembranes 48. Enclosed between thin membranes 48 in the neck 90 of babybottle 80 is a beverage preparation 40. Although any beveragepreparation suitable for use with infants may be used, in a preferredembodiment of the invention, beverage preparation 40 is powdered milk ormilk substitute. The baby bottle 80 is prefilled with potable liquid,preferably treated water 92. The nipple cover 82 is commonly a softrubber or plastic and compressible. Finger action against the dispersalmeans 84 causes the lower punch 88 and upper punch 86 to perforate thethin membranes 48 and infuse their contents into the base liquid 92,such as water. The drink is ready to give to an infant after shaking thecontainer 78 by hand.

FIG. 5B illustrates an alternate embodiment of the invention forpreparing a beverage drink for infants.

The beverage preparation 40 in the embodiment of the invention shown inFIG. 5B are stored in a sealed chamber 96 comprising a hollow handleelement of baby bottle 94. The contents of sealed chamber 96 aredispensed into the potable base liquid, such as treated water 92,through a thin membrane 48 which is a common surface between the bottle94 and the beverage preparation chamber 96 which is formed as a handleon the side of bottle 94. The other elements of the embodiment of theinvention are as described in relation to FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C illustrates yet another embodiment of the invention forpreparing a beverage drink for infants.

Baby bottle 94 in this embodiment of the invention is provided with aside-disposed dome-like, sealed chamber 98 storing measure amounts of anadditive ingredient 40 for mixture with the treated water 92. Fingerpressure on the sealed chamber 98 activates a dispenser means (seeabove) perforating the thin membrane 48. In a preferred embodiment ofthe invention, thin membrane 48 comprises aluminum foil although othermetallic foils are also usable. Shaking the bottle 94 is sufficient toprepare the beverage for drinking.

FIG. 5D illustrates a further embodiment of the invention for preparinga beverage drink for infants.

Baby bottle 100 is provided with a sealed chamber 102 which accommodatesat least one pocket of beverage preparation 40 for mixing with thepotable base liquid 92 supplied with the bottle 100. The sealed chamber102 is disposed in a recess formed in the bottom portion of the bottleby the extension of sides 104. Other features and elements are asdescribed heretofore for similar embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 is an isometric, cutaway view of a cup container provided with asealed chamber containing a beverage preparation disposed on theunderside.

By way of example, FIG. 6 shows a container, such as a cup 106, similarto that shown in FIGS. 1-4, but with a sealed chamber 102 containingbeverage preparation 40 disposed on an underside of the container,similar to the example for a baby bottle shown in FIG. 5D. Because thedry ingredients in the sealed chamber 102 are disposed on the undersideof the container, problems may arise in preventing unwanted diffusion ofthe base liquid, such as water 92 (see FIG. 5D), prior to the desiredtime for preparation of a beverage for drinking.

To overcome this problem or potential problem, the bottom portion of thecontainer is constructed with an internal welding ring 108 and anexternal welding ring 110 for extra security in guarding againstunwanted seepage. The two welding rings 108, 110 improve the isolationbetween the base liquid, such as water 92 and the beverage preparation40, commonly powders or dried materials, by increasing the distance thewater 92 must pass by diffusion through the plastic material, generallyused in fabricating a drinking container.

FIG. 6A is an enlarged, detail view 6A of a portion of the constructionof the container from FIG. 6.

FIG. 6A shows close details of the two bonding rings 108, 110 ofjoining. The aluminum foil thin membrane 48 in the upper part of thesealed compartment, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, is sizedto overlap part of the inside base of the container, in this case cup106. Using a heat bonding or welding technique known to those skilled inthe art, the beverage preparation powder is well isolated from theliquid in the container. Such a method applied to a drinking cup isobviously applicable to any container made of similar material and withlike disposition of a dry ingredient in close proximity to a liquid.

FIG. 7 is an isometric, cross-section view of an embodiment of theinvention for a beverage preparation system for medicinal potions.

A container, such as medicine bottle 112 is provided with a cover 114comprising an elastic (rubber-like) dome 116 under which an additiveingredient 40, such as medicinal powder, is stored. The underside of thesealed chamber is defined by a thin membrane 48, such as aluminum foil,which is perforated by a dispersion means (such as described heretoforein relation to dome-like chamber 38 in FIG. 1) to mix the medicinalpowder 40 with a base liquid 92, as required to prepare a therapeuticpotion. The elastic dome 116 is secured to the top of the medicinebottle 112 by a metallic sealing ring 118. An injection piercing point120 is conveniently provided at the apex of the elastic dome 116 forsterile injection of material into the sealed bottle 112. The cover 114is not removable as a metallic sealing ring 118 locks the bottle andprevents unsanitary reuse.

To allow passage of the medicinal powder 40 into the base liquid 92 inmedicine bottle 112, the thin membrane 48 is perforated either bypressing the elastic dome 116 against the powder additive ingredient 40activating a dispersion means as heretofore described. The dispensermeans breaks the thin membrane 48 along the welding line at its built-inbreak points. Alternatively, an additional ring (not shown) providedwith sharp ribs may be disposed between the rubber-like elastic dome 116and thin membrane 48 and operated by depressing elastic dome 116.

FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of an embodiment of the system of theinvention for preparing a hot or cold beverage drink in a cup containerutilizing a removable, portable, heating/cooling unit.

A heating/cooling unit 122 is provided, comprising a pump 124 connectedto and driving a pump impeller 126 for drawing up the water 92 from acup 128. A controller device 130 for interfacing with a power means (notshown) is attached to a heating/cooling element 132, such as a Peltieror equivalent heating/cooling element. Alternatively, only a heatingelement is used. The controller device 130 is also connected by a cable134 to a standard automobile cigarette lighter jack 136 to connect witha power means, such as a car battery. The controller device 130 is alsoadaptable for conventional electrical usage if the portable beveragepreparation system is operated at home or in the office.

The pump impeller 126 draws water 92 (indicated by upward curved arrows)into a water inlet 138. The water 92 from cup 128 is made to flow overthe surface of heating/cooling element 132 disposed in a small heatingchamber 154 and is then recycled back into the cup 128 through a wateroutlet 140. The process continues until the water 92 has reached adesired temperature as controlled by controller device 130 and thenshuts itself off. Alternatively, a user can manually stop theheating/cooling cycle at any point in time. The heating/cooling unit 122is then removed from the openings 66 in cover 142 and the beverage drinkis ready to imbibe.

FIGS. 9A/B/C are cross-section views of the steps in another beveragepreparation system in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention.

As shown in FIG. 9A, a container, such as cup 144, containing a sealedchamber 56 of a measured amount of beverage preparation 40, is connectedphysically to a heating unit 148 by inserting protruding ports 138 and140 into matching openings in the cover 142 of cup 144. The heating unit148 comprises a controller 130 in communication with a power source (notshown), utilizing a connector, such as an automobile cigarette lighterplug 136. A heater element 132 is disposed in a heating chamber 146separated from the power controller 130 and related elements in heatingunit 148.

In FIG. 9B, the entire cup 144 and heating unit 148 are turned upsidedown so that the water in cup 144 will move to the heating chamber andwill be heated.

In FIG. 9C, the final stage of beverage preparation, the entire cup unit144 and heating unit 148 are turned back with the cup unit 144, rightside up under the heating unit 148. A one-way valve 150 prevents thewater 92 from returning to the cup 144 except at the pump 152 outlet140. The high-pressure pump 152 is activated to open, by the force ofwater pressure, the thin membranes 48 enclosing beverage preparation 40.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, thin membrane 48 is made ofaluminum foil. The heated water flows through the beverage preparation40 held inside cup 144 and fills cup 144 with the drink mixture.Alternatively, depending on the disposition of the sealed chamber 56 andthe orientation of the thin membranes 48 sealing-in the beveragepreparation 40, a dispenser means as hereinbefore described is utilizedto mix the now heated water 92 with the beverage preparation 40. Theheating unit 148 is then removed from the cup 144 and the preparedheated beverage, is ready to drink.

FIGS. 10A/B are cross-section views of another embodiment of the systemof the invention.

Referring now to FIG. 10A, a container, such as cup 128 is connected toa heating unit 158 with a snap-type connection so that a port 156 inheating unit 158 fits snugly into a matching opening in the cover 142sealed onto cup 128. The cup 128 is then inverted so that water 92within the cup 128 is forced by gravity into a heating compartment 146where it is heated by a heater element 132 as described heretofore inrespect of the system of FIG. 9. When the water has been heated, the cup128 is returned to an upright position and the user removes the heatingunit 158.

Illustrated in FIG. 10 is an accordion-like protuberance embodiment ofthe sealed chamber 160 containing the beverage preparation 40. Thebeverage preparation is deployed by a dispenser means (not shown)embedded in the beverage preparation 40 as hereinbefore described. Theuser closes the openings in the sealed cover 142 with small coversprovided, and shakes the cup 128 by hand a few times to mix the beveragethoroughly before drinking.

FIG. 11 is an isometric cross-section view of a portable beveragepreparation device constructed in accordance with another embodiment ofthe invention.

The portable beverage preparation system of the invention in theembodiment of the invention of FIGS. 11-12, 14-16 includes a container,such as cup unit 176 and a heating unit 162 utilized when making abrewed beverage.

Referring to FIG. 11, the heating unit 162 includes a power interfaceunit 164 connected to a power cord 134 in communication with a powerplug, for example, an automobile cigarette lighter plug 136. The powerinterface unit 164 is connected to controller 130 which operates aswitch 168 to turn the heating unit 162 on or off. The power source maybe, for example, a conventional (domestic, commercial, industrial)electrical outlet, a battery source or an automobile cigarette lighter.Heating unit 162 also includes a heating element 184 containing a heaterrod 166 which is connected to the switch 168 through a waterseal opening170. The heater rod 166 is controlled from a controller unit 130 whichcan detect changes in temperature vs. time and shut down the heatingelement if there is no more water to heat, if the water has reached adesired temperature, or if a used cup is accidentally connected to thesystem which might be out of fresh beverage preparation powder.

The heating unit 162 is provided with legs 174 for allowing the heatingunit 162 to stand in a self-supporting manner (and for example,supporting a cup 176 when the heating unit 162 is in operation with thecup 176). The heating unit 162 is provided with lip segments 178, whichare preferably discontinuous and rounded, and dimensioned to form abayonet type connection with the corresponding lip segments 180 of theouter cup 182. The outer cup 182 is provided with convenient ribs 131for grasping the cup unit 176 when it is filled with a hot preparedbeverage drink.

FIG. 11A is an isometric, cross-sectional view of detail 11A from FIG.11.

FIG. 11B is an enlarged, isometric, cross-sectional view of detail 11Bfrom FIG. 11.

Turning to FIG. 11A, the cup unit 176 includes an outer cup 182 andinner cup 78 with a space between them, defining an outer chamber 171.The inner cup 78 is typically adhered to the outer cup 182, byultrasonic welds, friction fits, adhesives or the like, and may bedesigned to be separable therefrom by small forces from a user. Theinner 78 and outer 182 cups are typically coaxial (an also typicallycoaxial with the heating element 184 of the heating unit 162).

This outer chamber 171 typically receives the brewed (steeped, etc.)beverage. Outer cup 182 may be provided with isolation ribs 131 forprotecting the fingers of the user, and for providing gripping elements.The outer cup 182 terminates in lip segments 180. These lip segments 180are preferably discontinuous and rounded so as to form a bayonet typeconnection with correspondingly shaped portions 178 of the heating unit162.

The inner cup 78 includes a body 79 (see FIG. 14) and a brewing element204, typically integral with the body 79. The interior of the inner cup78 serves as an inner chamber 169 (FIG. 14). The inner chamber 169(represented by filler lines) is typically dimensioned so as to receivethe heating element 184 and to hold water (not shown) or other similarliquid.

The brewing element 204 is, for example, a rim along the uppercircumference of the inner cup 78. It extends inward, to define a pocket173, typically ring shaped, between inner 202 and outer 211 walls (seeFIG. 11B), for holding (enclosing) beverage preparation 40 for beveragepreparation (such as chopped, ground, powdered, edible materials, ormaterials consolidated in the form of rings, cubes, capsules, balls orthe like). These preparations may be ground coffee, espresso, tea, hotchocolate, sugar, and the like. These preparations may either beinserted into the pocket 173 by the user or prepackaged by amanufacturer.

The inner wall 202, typically defines a central opening 218 (see axialline in FIGS. 15 and 16), that is typically conical with a circularbore. This central opening 218 is for example, of dimensions suitablefor receiving the heating element 184 of the heating unit 162 in arelatively snug and sealing manner, for support. To enhance thissupport, the inner wall 202 is for example, inwardly tapered (in thedownward direction). Lateral bores 51, extending longitudinally throughthe brewing element 204, allow for venting (to the ambient environment)of the liquid in the inner chamber 177.

The inner 202 and outer 211 walls include openings 209, 210,respectively. These openings 209, 210 typically serve as fluid inletsand outlets, for the hot liquid, for example water, as it passes fromthe inner cup 78 through the heating element 184 to the outer chamber171 of outer cup 182, contacting the beverage preparation 40 of thebeverage preparation in the pocket 173 during this passage.

The brewing element 204 typically includes a cover 56. This cover 56, inorder to enable development of pressures necessary for hot liquid toflow through the beverage preparation 40 in the beverage preparation(for example, ground coffee or espresso) in the pocket 173, typicallyencloses the pocket 173 and is typically sealed to the brewing element204, by reliable methods such as ultrasonic welding. The cover 56 isdimensioned so as to frictionally engage the remainder of the brewingelement 204 prior to sealing.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the power and heating units shownindependently of the cup container from FIG. 11. Similar elements andfeatures are indicated by like designations of numerals.

FIG. 12A shows a detailed, enlarged, cross-sectional view of a heatingelement 184 from FIGS. 11 and 12 which includes an interior boilingchamber 172. A heater rod 166 extends from a switch 168 (FIG. 12) intochamber 172 for heating the liquid that is admitted into chamber 172.Liquid typically enters chamber 172 through openings 190, typically atthe lower end of the heating element 184. The chamber 172 also includesopenings 188 at the upper end of the heater rod 166, which serve as ventopenings (typically during the liquid filling stage in chamber 172).

A valve, for example, formed from a temperature sensitive bimetal strip186, with ends 186 a of areas larger than the respective openings 188,190 are attached by a snap in action to the heating element 184, forexample, by being fitted into slots (not shown) inside heating element184. Once heated by the hot liquid, the bimetal strips 186 respond tothe increased temperature as the ends 186 a move outward, with mounds186 b on the ends 186 a fitting into the openings 188, 190, so as toseal them. This sealing prevents liquid from flowing out from chamber172, and seals the chamber 172 allowing for the requisite brewingpressures to develop. These bimetal strips 186 forming the valves aretypically such that both ends 186 a, and the mounds 186 b open and closesimultaneously, in response to temperature changes in the chamber 172.

The controller 130 controls the heater rod 166. The controller 130,coupled with a heater coil 167 in the heater rod 166, functions (amongits other functions) as a primary, or main sensor for the heating unit162. The controller 130 includes circuitry for measuring conductivity ofthe heater coil 167 in the heater rod 166.

Temperature sensing is performed to detect changes of heater resistanceversus temperature (see FIG. 13). Once a predetermined level has beenreached for this value or alternately, a slope, defined by apredetermined temperature rise over a predetermined time, in accordancewith the graph shown in FIG. 13, detailed below, has been attained, thecontroller 130 causes a shut-off of the switch 168 and therefore, theheater coil 167 of the heater rod 166 in the heating element 184.

A sensor 194 is located inside the heater rod 166. This sensor 194 is anauxiliary sensor with respect to the controller 130 (detailed above), asit operates independently of and in parallel with the heater coil167/controller 130 (detailed above). It will remain in operation shouldthe heater coil 167 become damaged. This sensor 194 is a secondarysensor, placed into the heater rod 166 for safety, to override theprimary sensor mechanism, if it becomes become damaged. This sensorsignals the switch 168 to shut off the heater rod 166 when predeterminedtemperatures are reached in the chamber 172.

A tube 196 extends from the lower end within heating element 184, whereit has an inlet 190 to the upper end of chamber 172. The upper end 196 bof this tube 196 terminates in an opening 198, that opens into a collarsection 200 of the heating element 184. These openings 198 arepositioned proximate the inner wall 202 (see FIG. 11B) of the brewingelement 204, such that fluid can flow through the pocket 206 of brewingelement 204, as described herein in reference to FIG. 14.

The collar section 200 shown in FIG. 12A includes a belt 208, typicallyof an elastomeric material that is flexible, and typically functions asa pressure valve (to prevent fluid backflow into the chamber 172), asits flexibility is such that the belt 208 can be moved outward inresponse to fluid pressure through the openings, allowing the fluid (forexample, hot liquid and steam) to enter the brewing element 204 (seeFIG. 14), through openings 210 in the inner wall 202 (see FIG. 15). Whenthe fluid pressure is released, the belt 208 (see FIG. 11B) flexes backto its original position.

Alternately, other pressure valves could be placed at the openings 198.

The belt 208 is supported in its position by inner ribs 212. Outer ribs214, are spaced apart from the inner ribs 212. The inner 212 and outer214 ribs run circumferentially around the outer surface of the heatingelement 184, typically continuously, and support O-rings 216 betweenthem. These O-rings 216 are typically of an elastomeric material andassist in the sealing between the heating element 184 and the brewingelement 204, when the heating element 184 is placed through the centralopening 218, for operation of the system of the portable beveragepreparation device as shown in FIG. 11.

An exemplary operation of the portable beverage preparation system,detailed in FIGS. 11 and 12 will now be described. Here, water isprovided to the inner cup 78 of the cup unit 176—in the precise amountso that additional water need not be added, for example, approximately75 milliliters for preparing an espresso beverage), either by the user,or the user peels off the cover of the alternate cup, detailedhereinbefore. The heating element 184 is inserted in the inner chamber169 (see FIG. 14), and with the bimetal valve 186 simultaneously open, asmall volume of water (for example, 15 ml or ⅕ of the amount of liquidin the inner cup 78, should an espresso be desired) enters the confinedspace of the chamber 172 through the opening 190. As the heater rod 166begins to heat the liquid (e.g., water), the bimetal valve 186 close theopenings 188, 190, allowing the pressure within the chamber 172 to riseas a result of the steam produced by the heated water.

The raised pressure in the chamber 172 forces liquid (i.e., water)through the tube 196, thereby opening the valve (loosening the belt) 208allowing a small quantity of pressurized water to exit the chamber 172through the tube 196 into the brewing element 204 (through openings 210in the inner wall 202) and through the beverage preparation therein (inaccordance with the arrows of FIG. 11B). The now treated fluid leavesthe brewing element 204 through openings 209 in the outer wall 211,where it flows downward, into the chamber 171 between the outer 182 andinner 78 cups.

The chamber 172 is now left empty of water and, therefore, thetemperature in the chamber 172 rises rapidly. The controller 130 sensesthe rapid heat rise and turns off the switch 168 for a short period oftime. This allows the chamber 172 to cool and therefore allow thebimetal valves 186 to move inward opening the openings 188, 190, therebyallowing the chamber 172 to refill and the process (cycle) to berepeated.

This process (cycle) is repeated for as long as desired. For example,there are about five cycles of approximately 15 ml each for thepredefined volume of approximately 75 ml in the inner chamber 169. Theprocess typically continues until the inner chamber 169 of the cup 78 isempty.

Should the process be complete, the user can manually turn off theheating unit 162, typically by a manual switch or the like, coupled tothe aforementioned electronics of the heating unit 162 (or can removethe plug 136 from the outlet). Should the heating unit 162 remain on(not shut off manually), it will shut off by itself, as detailed above.

The user turns the cup unit 176, so that its lip segments 180 are out ofcontact with the corresponding lip segments 178 of the heating unit 162.The cup unit 176 can now be removed and separated from the heating unit162, and the hot drink is ready for the user. Otherwise, once the cupunit 176 has been removed and separated from the heating unit 162, theuser may place the cover 56 onto the cup unit 176, such that it holds bya snap-fit, to keep the beverage hot until drinking is desired (as shownin FIG. 16).

FIG. 13 is a graph comparing temperature variations over time for waterheated by the heater element of FIG. 12A under different waterconditions.

FIG. 13 details temperature curves for normal operation of the portablebeverage preparation device in accordance with the principles of theinvention. These temperature curves correspond to input parameters forthe controller 130 of the power unit 164, through a series of heatingslopes. These slopes are representative of behavior that will cause thecontroller 130 to shut off power to the switch 168, or begin a newcycle, when certain heating slopes occur. The changes in temperature aredetected by the heater rod 166, based on resistance or conductivitychanges, performed by the controller 130.

Line 122 labeled R is indicative of conditions in the chamber 172, whenempty of liquid and the heater rod 166 in heater element 184 remains on.R indicates the detected linear rise in temperature, at a steep slope,that if this or a similar steep slope is attained at the start of aheating cycle, indicates that liquid is not in the cup unit 176, and theheating unit 162 will shut off. This occurs as the controller 130 shutsoff power to the switch 168 and accordingly, the heater rod 166. Here,the process stops until the user replaces the empty cup unit 176 with anew one.

In line S by comparison, the inner segment 131 is at a gradual slope,indicating heating of liquid, typically water, to boiling temperatures,for example, approximately 105 degrees Celsius. Prior to boiling underpressure, latent heat that has accumulated, defines the outer segment132, that is flat and/or of a very low slope at the end of the line 132.Here, all of the liquid has been passed out of the chamber 172 throughthe tube 196 and the temperature jumps dramatically as all the water isdissipated outward represented by segment 133 of line S. Note the steeprise of the slope similar to that for line R. This behavior results inthe heating process being shut off and the beginning of a new cycle.

In the case of a heating process lasting too long in accordance withsegment 132 (the temperature and pressure will rise greater thandesired), this is indicative of a blocked valve, blocked tube or otheroutlet being blocked. The system will shut down indicating the need forrepair. The controller 130 detects a change in conductivity/resistance,and shuts off power to the switch 168. The controller 130 has circuitry,typically configured to lock the electronics of the heating unit 162 forsafety reasons, should shut off under these conditions occur. Also, theadditional sensor 194 has circuitry that if activated will also signalthe controller 130 to lock the system, if the aforementioned shut-offconditions occur.

The portable beverage preparation system of the invention, inalternative embodiments thereof, can also include sensors to indicatethe presence or absence of a cup unit 176. There may also be sensors toindicate the presence of a new cup, in which case, the system willoperate; or a used cup, an improper or a defective cup; in which casethe system will not operate. These cup type sensors are typicallyoptical sensors that detect color or equivalents as is known to thoseskilled in the art. The aforementioned sensors can be connected to thecontroller 130 that would either allow system operation or lock it,based on the detected condition.

Additionally, the system may include a locking plunger (not shown), thatholds the cup unit 176 firmly in place on the heating unit 162 duringoperation and in particular during heating of the liquid.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the cup unit from FIG. 11,including a brewing element. Similar elements and features are indicatedby like designations of numerals.

FIG. 15 is an isometric, exploded, cross-sectional view of the cup unitof FIG. 14, but with a removable brewing element;

FIG. 15 details an alternate embodiment of the beverage preparationdevice with a cup unit 176, as detailed above, except that the brewingelement 203 is separable from the cup body 205. This brewing element 203includes a cuff 220 of a diameter just slightly greater than thediameter of the inner wall 222 of the upper, wider portion of the cupbody 205, to provide a frictional engagement when the cuff 220 is placedinto the inner cup 78. This brewing element 203 may be filled with aprepackaged consolidated beverage base, ground or powdered substance.

FIG. 16 is an isometric, cross-sectional view of a cover mounted on thecup unit of FIG. 14 after heating of a brew.

Referring now to FIG. 16, there is shown a cover 56, configured to fitthe cup unit 176, to seal both the liquid and the powder isolated fromeach other and the ambient environment (typically to avoid contaminationand moisture from the ambient environment after use). The cup unit 176is normally supplied as a fully-equipped closed unit that containstreated (pretreated) water, powders or liquids.

The cover 56 includes lip segments 181 that connect with correspondinglyconfigured lip segments 180 on the outer cup 182 in a snap-typeconnection. The cover 56 can be provided with protrusions 224 positionedand configured for fitting into the bores 51 of the brewing element 203.A central insert 226 covers the central opening 218 (indicated bycentral dashed line) to isolate liquids in the chamber 169 from thepowders in the pocket 173.

FIG. 17A is an axial, cross-sectional view of a further embodiment of abrewing element of the invention.

FIG. 17B is an isometric, cross-sectional view of the brewing element ofFIG. 17A.

FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate another embodiment of a brewing element 230configured with two concentric ring sections 232, 234 for insertion ofbeverage preparation 40, 41, that is, different beverage preparations ineach. These sections 232, 234 are sealed from each other and are openedby either heat or pressure or combinations thereof. Upon opening, thesections 232, 234 will form tunnels in a labyrinth configuration,allowing hot water to contact the beverage preparations in both sections232, 234, prior to entering the outer cup 182 (FIG. 16). For example,combinations such as coffee and chocolate may be in each of the sections232, 234, to provide a mocha beverage. Similarly, parallel radialchambers can be used for holding different beverage powders. The centralcore 218 is similar to that described heretofore for insertion of aportable heating unit 162.

FIG. 18 is a top, cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of abrewing element of the invention.

In FIG. 18, there is shown a brewing element 236 provided with a spiralchannel 238 with two areas 240, 242, typically arranged serially, fordifferent beverage preparations. There are typically partition members244 between the two areas 240, 242. For example, the inner area 240 mayhold one beverage preparation additive ingredient 40, such as coffee,and the outer area 242 may hold a different additive ingredient 43, suchas chocolate, sugar, powdered milk, and the like.

In operation, hot water runs the course of the spiral channel 246,contacting both preparations, with sufficient pressure because of thenarrowness of the channel 246, prior to entering the outer cup 78 (FIG.16) as a mocha beverage. Arrows indicate the inlet and outlet for thewater flow.

Alternatively, partition members 244 may be omitted and just a singleadditive ingredient, for example, soup powder, provided for mixing withthe liquid in a cup unit 176, as hereinbefore described.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the cup unitof FIG. 14.

In this alternate embodiment of the invention, the cup unit 250 isdesigned to accept a user-selected brewing element to be inserted intocup 250 (see FIG. 15) and heated by a heating unit. (such as 162 in FIG.11). In this case, the inner cup 78 which contains treated water orother treated liquid 92 is sealed, typically with a peel-off lid 248 orthe like, across the top of the inner cup 78, and also typically theouter cup 182. This peel-off lid 248 is easily opened by the user when auser desires to insert a brewing element, and is fabricated of materialsto preserve the freshness of the liquid in the inner cup 78. Thepeel-off lid 248 can be such that it is a single lid, covering theentire cup unit 250 or multiple lids, covering various portions of thecup unit 250. Other features and elements of cup unit 250 aresubstantially as described hereinbefore.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have beendescribed, so as to enable one of skill in the art to practice thepresent invention, the preceding description is intended to be exemplaryonly, including the structural elements, combinations thereof, methodsand processes, and portions thereof, disclosed herein. Thesedescriptions should not be used to limit the scope of the invention. Thescope of the invention should be determined by reference to thefollowing claims.

1-79. (canceled)
 80. A portable beverage preparation device comprising:a heating/cooling element for heating/cooling a potable base liquid; aheating/cooling chamber for housing said heating/cooling element and forheating/cooling said potable base liquid; at least one pump unitconfigured for drawing and returning said potable base liquid from andto, respectively, a drink container, and a controller for operating saidat least one pump unit and said heating/cooling element when incommunication with a power source, wherein said heating/cooling elementheats/cools said potable base liquid in said heating chamber and said atleast one pump unit returns said potable base liquid in a heated/cooledstate back into said drink container, and wherein said drink containeris provided with at least one sealed compartment comprising a beveragepreparation element and having at least one beverage preparation storedtherein in isolation from said potable base liquid.
 81. The portablebeverage preparation device of claim 80 wherein said controllercontinues to cause water to flow in contact with a surface of saidheating/cooling element in a closed cycle until the desired temperatureof said potable base liquid is reached.
 82. The portable beveragepreparation device of claim 81 wherein said potable base liquid is madeto flow on one face of said heating/cooling element for heating, and onanother face for cooling.
 83. The portable beverage preparation deviceof claim 81 wherein said potable base liquid is made to flow on the sameface of said heating/cooling element, either for cooling or heatingpurpose, electrically switching the polarity of said heating/coolingelement thus switching said beverage preparation device from a heatingmode to a cooling mode and vice-versa.
 84. The portable beveragepreparation device of claim 80 wherein said drink container is providedwith at least one sealed compartment isolated from said drink containerat the common surface between said drink container and said at least onesealed compartment, said isolation being provided by at least two weldedrings sufficiently spaced apart to prevent said potable base liquid fromseeping into said beverage preparation element.
 85. The portablebeverage preparation device of claim 80 wherein said drink containercomprises a cup.
 86. The portable beverage preparation device of claim85 wherein said cup is provided with a sealed cover welded thereon by anattachment means forming a sealed cup unit containing said potable baseliquid and said at least one sealed beverage preparation compartmentneeded to prepare a selected beverage drink.
 87. The portable beveragepreparation device of claim 86 wherein said sealed cover is configuredwith at least two utility openings covered with removable small coverscomprising: at least a first opening for extracting said beverage drinkfrom said cup unit; and at least a second opening for processing saidbeverage drink.
 88. The portable beverage preparation device of claim 87wherein said first opening provides for venting of said potable baseliquid and for drinking therefrom.
 89. The portable beverage preparationdevice of claim 87 wherein said removable small covers are applied tosaid utility openings to seal any waste materials inside said cup afteruse.
 90. The portable beverage preparation device of claim 86 whereinsaid cup unit includes an inner cup nested in an outer cup, said innercup spaced apart from said outer cup so as to define a chamber forholding liquid therebetween, and wherein said outer cup is incommunication with said chamber of said brewing element for receivingsaid potable base liquid that has passed therethrough.
 91. The portablebeverage preparation device of claim 86 wherein said cup unit isprovided with a predetermined volume of said potable base liquid andincludes an inner lid and an outer cover, wherein both said inner lidand said outer cover are removable for insertion of a user-selectedbeverage preparation element.
 92. The portable beverage preparationdevice of claim 80 wherein said at least one beverage preparationelement comprises at least one sealed compartment containing at leastone beverage preparation selected from the group of edible materialsincluding: coffee, tea, cocoa; dried fruits, dried vegetables; fruitjuice, vegetable juice; milk and milk-substitute powders; syrups,sweeteners, flavorings; emulsions, solutions, extracts; dried herbs,medicines; liquid concentrates, liquid condensates, and any combinationselected from said group of edible materials.
 93. The portable beveragepreparation device of claim 92 wherein said edible materials are in theform of dried, soluble edible substances.
 94. The portable beveragepreparation device of claim 92 wherein said at least one beveragepreparation is dispersed in said potable base liquid by a dispensermeans.
 95. The portable beverage preparation device of claim 94 whereinsaid dispenser means comprises a hydraulic pump having a fixed arm and amoveable arm disposed within said drink container and said potable baseliquid for effecting dispersion of said at least one beveragepreparation confined within said at least one sealed compartment whenpressure is applied by a user to the pressure point extremes of saidfixed and moveable arms.
 96. The portable beverage preparation device ofclaim 94 wherein said dispenser means comprises water pressure.
 97. Aportable beverage preparation device comprising: a drink containercomprising: a sealed cover attached thereto configured with at least twoutility openings fitted with removable covers; a predetermined volume ofpotable base liquid; at least one sealed compartment provided with atleast one bore for confining a beverage preparation, wherein saidpotable base liquid and said at least one sealed compartment are inclose proximity within said drink container and covered by said sealedcover; a heating/cooling unit for heating/cooling said potable baseliquid, said heating/cooling unit including a heating/cooling element;at least one pump unit for pumping and circulating said potable baseliquid; and a controller and a power source for controlling andactivating said at least one pump unit, wherein said heating/coolingunit, said at least one pump unit, and said controller are disposed in aportable housing comprising a heating/cooling chamber, and wherein whensaid at least one pump unit is connected to a power source and operated,said potable base liquid is circulated so as to be heated/cooled by saidheating/cooling unit and mixed with said beverage preparation to providea heated/cooled beverage in said drink container.
 98. The portablebeverage preparation device of claim 97 further comprising: a portableheating device configured to be attached to said drink containercontaining a potable base liquid for providing heating of a beveragedrink on demand.
 99. The portable beverage preparation device of claim98 wherein said portable heating device comprises a heating element,including heating coils, configured for direct insertion into saidpotable base liquid.
 100. The portable beverage preparation device ofclaim 98 wherein said portable heating device comprises a solid-stateheat pump that utilizes the Peltier effect for either of heating andcooling said beverage drink.
 101. The portable beverage preparationdevice of claim 98 wherein said heating device further includes: aholding chamber for accommodating at least a portion of said potablebase liquid; at least one heat-activated valve for controlling the flowof said potable base liquid through said heating element; a heater rodextending into said holding chamber; and a tube in communication withsaid holding chamber and said beverage preparation element, wherein saidheater element, when fitted within said holding chamber and activated,operates said heater rod to heat said at least a portion of said potablebase liquid to at least boiling within said holding chamber, and whereinsaid holding chamber retains said potable base liquid by activation ofsaid at least one heat-activated valve to produce pressure in saidholding chamber for pushing said heated potable base liquid through saidtube.
 102. The portable beverage preparation device of claim 101 whereinsaid heat-activated valve includes a bimetal strip.
 103. A portablebeverage preparation device comprising: a heater unit for heating apotable base liquid, including a heating element; and a brewing element,including at least one beverage preparation confined therein in at leastone pocket thereof for admitting said potable base liquid therethrough.104. The portable beverage preparation device of claim 103 wherein saidheating element is configured for fitting within a cup unit.
 105. Theportable beverage preparation device of claim 103 wherein said heaterunit comprises: a switch for activating and deactivating said heatingelement; a controller for controlling the operation of said heatingelement; and a power unit for providing power to said heating element,wherein said switch, said controller, and said power unit are incommunication with one another and with a power source.
 106. A portablebeverage preparation system comprising: a cup unit including an innercup and an outer cup, said inner cup spaced apart from said outer cup soas to define a chamber for holding a potable base liquid therebetween; aheater unit for heating said potable base liquid; and a brewing elementconfigured for fitting on said inner cup, wherein said brewing elementis configured with at least one pocket for holding at least one beveragepreparation and configured for the passage of said potable base liquidtherethrough, and including an outlet proximate to the periphery of saidouter cup.
 107. The beverage preparation system of claim 106, whereinsaid outer cup is provided with external isolation ribs.
 108. Theportable beverage preparation system of claim 106, wherein said outercup envelopes said inner cup, being in communication with said pocket ofsaid brewing element for receiving said potable base liquid that haspassed therethrough.
 109. The beverage preparation system of claim 106,wherein said at least one beverage preparation is espresso.
 110. Thebeverage preparation system of claim 106, wherein said brewing elementis removably insertable.
 111. The beverage preparation system of claim106, wherein said brewing element is provided with a centrally disposedbore oriented axially within said brewing element.
 112. The beveragepreparation system of claim 106, wherein said brewing element isprovided with a bore axially offset with respect to the central axis ofsaid brewing element.
 113. The beverage preparation system of claim 106,wherein said brewing element further comprises at least two concentricrings, for storage of at least two types of beverage preparations. 114.The beverage preparation system of claim 106, wherein said brewingelement has a spiral configuration, said liquid entering said spiral atan inner edge thereof and exiting at an outer edge thereof, said outeredge communicating with said second cup.
 115. The beverage preparationsystem of claim 114, wherein said spiral configuration has at least twobeverage preparation areas arranged sequentially in the spiral, suchthat said potable base liquid enters said spiral at said inner edge andpasses through said first beverage preparation area and continues topass through said spiral through a second beverage preparation area andexits through said outer edge communicating with said second cup. 116.The portable beverage preparation system of claim 106 wherein saidheater unit comprises: a switch for activating and deactivating saidheating element; a controller for controlling the operation of saidheating element; a heating element configured for fitting within saidcup unit; and a power unit for providing power to said heating element,wherein said heating element, said switch, said controller, and saidpower unit are in communication with one another and with a power sourcevia a plug.
 117. The portable beverage preparation system of claim 116wherein said heating element includes: a holding chamber foraccommodating at least a portion of said potable base liquid; at leastone heat-activated valve for sealing said holding chamber to confinesaid at least a portion of said potable base liquid in said holdingchamber; a heater rod extending into said holding chamber; and a tube incommunication with said holding chamber and said beverage preparationelement, wherein said heating element, when fitted within said holdingchamber and activated, operates said heater rod to heat said at least aportion of said potable base liquid to at least boiling temperaturewithin said holding chamber, and wherein said holding chamber retainssaid potable base liquid by activation of said at least oneheat-activated valve to produce pressure in said holding chamber forpushing said heated potable base liquid through said tube and into saidbeverage preparation element.
 118. The portable beverage preparationsystem of claim 116 wherein said heating element further includes aheater coil and a sensor in communication with said heater coil, saidsensor configured for detecting resistance in said heater coil fortemperature sensing.
 119. The portable beverage preparation system ofclaim 116, wherein said controller is configured for controlling saidheater rod by analyzing a rise in temperature versus time.
 120. Theportable beverage preparation system of claim 116 wherein saidcontroller shuts off power to said heater rod when any of the followingconditions prevail: a predetermined temperature is reached; an outlet isblocked; a used cup is detected; and said system lacks a predeterminedvolume of potable base liquid.
 121. The portable beverage preparationsystem of claim 116 wherein said plug is adapted for use in anautomobile cigarette lighter socket.
 122. The portable beveragepreparation system of claim 116 wherein said plug is adapted for use ina conventional electrical outlet.
 123. The beverage preparation systemof claim 117, wherein said at least one heat-activated valve includes avent for providing venting from said holding chamber.
 124. A method forpreparing a beverage drink comprising: heating/cooling a potable baseliquid; and flushing at least one beverage preparation from at least onesealed chamber into said potable base liquid by one of pressure actionand sprinkler means.
 125. The method for preparing a beverage drink asin claim 124 wherein said potable base liquid is treated water.
 126. Amethod for preparing a brewed beverage drink comprising: a) providing atleast one beverage preparation; b) providing a brewing element,including a holding chamber for confining said at least one beveragepreparation therein; c) continuously heating predetermined quantities ofliquid to at least boiling; and d) pressurizing said heated liquid toforce it into and out of said at least one beverage preparation confinedwithin said holding chamber.
 127. The method for preparing a brewedbeverage drink of claim 126, additionally comprising: e) repeating stepsb, c, and d.